A majority of cancers occur by chance and arise in those with no strong family history of cancer. But some families carry a greater risk for certain types of cancers. Sometimes the risk is rooted in genetics and other times, family history. Sometimes both. But just because someone carries a greater risk of cancer doesn’t mean he or she will get it. At the DiGiovanna Family Health and Wellness Center, we can help you evaluate both types of risks to determine if you should take preventative action.
» Genetic Risk Evaluation
The genetic risk evaluation is a blood test that screens for over 20 genes across 8 important cancer types including breast, ovarian, colorectal, uterine, melanoma, pancreatic, stomach and prostate.
» Tyrer-Cuzick Risk Assessment
This assessment evaluates your personal, as well as family, risk factors (a history of cancer). If your risk is determined to be high enough, increased monitoring such as extra screenings will be recommended.
By understanding what’s in a patient’s past (such as their family history), we can help them have a healthier future. In many cases, these tests are covered by medical insurance because they have been proven to improve patient outcomes.
Protect Yourself and Your Family
Hereditary cancer carries a risk that is passed down through generations by the inheritance of altered genes or gene mutations. Families with hereditary cancer may be at risk for more than one type of cancer, and family members may have cancers at an earlier than average age.
Abnormal genes associated with hereditary cancers may increase cancer risk in other relatives.
Hereditary cancer screening and genetic testing are important first steps in identifying future cancer risks and developing the best possible preventative treatment plan. These tests not only benefit the person having them done, they benefit the whole family.
